The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has seen more than its fair share of conflict and chaos in recent years, but it is seemingly on the road to recovery. It is due to have federal elections in November when current President Joseph Kabila is term-barred from re-standing. But, Kabila’s Government has called for a census and a National Dialogue that could delay or outright cancel these elections. This has led to mass protests and socioeconomic destabilization in the streets of Kinshasa. Much is at stake in DRC, with a very real danger that democracy might be be squandered in the name of dynasty. The DRC is resource-rich, but its people need freedom and democracy above all else if they are to prosper with the rest of the African continent. What lies ahead for “the Elephant of Africa”?

To discuss these issues, The Henry Jackson Society is pleased to invite you to an event with Bernard Katompa, Candidate for the Presidency, who will provide his in-depth recommendations on what is necessary for his country to safeguard its transition to full democracy, as well as offering his views on the DRC’s political and economic prospects.

To attend, please RSVP to rsvp@henryjacksonsociety.org – RSVPs must include your full name and any affiliations including for any guests you wish to bring. We will send a confirmation the day before the event that will be required to attend.

Speaker Biography

Bernard Katompa is an acclaimed entrepreneur, philanthropist and candidate for the Presidency of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in 2016. He serves as an accredited statesman on the African opportunity, addressing international audiences and elite stakeholders regarding the continent’s potential for prosperity.

He is a renowned civic leader and corporate steward, holding a BComm (Hons) BSc MComm and CPA, in addition to collaborating with and providing continued counsel for Liberty Africa of Liberty Group Ltd., under the position of Chief Executive.

Indeed in the private sector, Monsieur Katompa has extensive global experience in senior management with BHP Billiton, in addition to formerly serving as Chief Financial Officer and Vice President at Samancor Manganese. He has advised clients from a multitude of emerging markets in his role as Non-Executive Director at The Heritage Insurance Company Kenya Limited.

While a Chartered Accountant and noted orator, Monsieur Katompa further holds an AMP from Harvard University.

The Génération Déterminée Movement is a pan-African association speaking out against corruption in government and encouraging citizen participation and journalism in rooting out fraud and the manipulation of justice, with particular regard to French Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Movement aims to help build a prosperous continent, strong and respected in the global community of nations, supporting the desperate need for change for a country that has the potential to offer something of value not only to its people, but to the world.

The Henry Jackson Society is a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales under company number 07465741 and a charity registered in England and Wales under registered charity number 1140489.